Illustration by Mike Lowery
As the heat turns up, so does the volume at outdoor concerts just a short drive from Atlanta. From picturesque gardens to neighborhood hangouts, whether it’s legendary rock bands or current Billboard chart-toppers, there are plenty of lesser-known venues where you can bring a cooler, party with friends, and dance under the stars.
1. Ivester | Gainesville
est. 2015
Capacity: 2,000
Vibe: As befits the Atlanta Botanical Garden’s northern venue, lawn terraces set among trees
Tidbit: Loretta Lynn performed here with three generations of her family.
Top picks
07/27
Corey Smith with the Josephines
08/25
Marc Broussard and the Mavericks
2. The Bowl | Sugar Hill
est. 2012
Capacity: 1,750
Vibe: Cozy music in the round. Wander in and out to food trucks.
Tidbit: Season ticketholders decorate their tables for shows.
Top picks
06/01
Joan Jett & the Blackhearts
08/03
Blood, Sweat & Tears
3. The Frederick J. Brown | Peachtree City
est. 1976
Capacity: 2,500
Vibe: Come ready to party.
Tidbit: Local fans drive golf carts to the venue.
Top picks
07/20
The Spin Doctors and 10,000 Maniacs
08/03
The Lost 80s
4. Zac Brown’s Southern Ground | Fayetteville
est. 2002
Capacity: 1,600
Vibe: Down-home and relaxed
Tidbit: The Zac Brown Band’s annual concert funds the singer’s sleepaway camp.
Top picks
07/27
The Lowrider Band
08/17
The Purple Madness Prince Tribute
5. Mable House Barnes | Mableton
est. 2002
Capacity: 2,500
Vibe: Neighborhood picnic, small coolers allowed
Tidbit: In addition to concerts, they also show musicals and plays.
Top picks
6. Northside Hospital-Cherokee | Woodstock
est. 2016
Capacity: 10,500
Vibe: Large lawn area front and center, family fun
Tidbit: All summer concerts are free.
Top picks
06/08
Better Than Ezra
09/14
The Molly Ringwalds
This article appears in our June 2019 issue.
